Sometimes, life forces us to make difficult choices. A few years ago, I decided to leave everything I knew behind. I set off into the unknown with my partner. I chose love.
I chose to follow my heart. It was an extremely difficult choice. I had to give up living near my parents, my brothers and sisters, and my family. I made the decision to build my own life on the other side of the world—at least that’s what they seem to believe.
I never decided to distance myself from my family. I didn’t abandon them. I’m still the same person—that girl who cares about the well-being of those around her. Of course, some relationships have changed over time. People have drifted away from me since they didn’t see me every day. And I imagine I must have done the same without realizing it.
Sometimes I’m afraid. I’m afraid they’ll forget me; afraid that I no longer exist for these people who mean so much to me.
And then there’s the arrival of my daughter. So now I’m afraid she won’t get to know my family as well as I’d like her to. I’m afraid that at Christmas, when we go to my aunt’s house, she’ll be shy—as if all these people were strangers to her. The more I watch her grow up, the more frightened I become.
To some, I live too far away… The truth is, I dream of all of you showing up at my house to surprise me. The truth is, I miss you every single day. But the truth is also that I’m still happy.
Of course, I’ve built a life for myself here. My coworkers and friends have become like a second family. But nothing will ever replace our blood ties. And I’m fully aware of that.
To you, adventurous soul who decides to follow your heart, a wonderful story awaits you. Don’t be afraid—you’re sure to have unforgettable encounters. Just always keep in mind where you come from.
Linda Langlois-Laprés